The deal with the canned food contract manufacturer was effective April 1, and management will not be changed as a result. Under the agreement, Seneca Foods has the right to acquire the remaining 50 percent ownership of Truitt in the future. Additional details were not disclosed.

“We are very excited about our investment in Truitt Bros,” said Kraig Kayser, Seneca Foods' president and CEO, in a statement. “Truitt Bros. is a leader in developing shelf stable meals in trays and pouches.”

Seneca Foods employs nearly 400 local workers and 3,500 companywide, with sales of some $1.3 billion in fiscal 2013.